Proposals by the EU Commission and expected decisions by the EU Parliament and the Council of the EU, representing member state governments, to soften the 2035 ban on combustion engines and to streamline compliance regulations under the so-called ‘Omnibus I’ package have ignited controversy. Critics fear that the EU is diluting its global standing as an engaged promoter of human rights, and social and environmental standards.

Supporters, however, frame the expected changes as a way to simplify current regulations and shift the focus back to successful economic activity and promoting innovation by reducing excessive compliance requirements. The EU’s previous approach is viewed as too bureaucratic, leaving not enough flexibility for companies to develop new sustainable business models. 

A sharper focus on defence and security

The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine has prompted louder calls for greater investment in Europe’s security and defence capabilities. The current US administration’s demands on Europe, and especially European NATO members, to increase military spending as a share of GDP has further reinforced the sense that Europe must become more self-reliant.

Proponents of this shift argue that it is long overdue. Critics fear that increased spending on security could distract attention from other priorities such as climate protection, education and Europe’s social agenda. It remains to be seen whether the EU can combine security spending while honouring its commitments to a green and social market economy.

Public opinion: a steady foundation

According to a Eurobarometer survey in June 2025, 85% of respondents see climate change as a serious problem. More than 80% support the EU’s goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2050, and almost 90% believe the EU should accelerate action on renewable energy and energy efficiency. There is also strong endorsement for boosting Europe’s competitiveness in clean technologies, and 75% think that reducing fossil-fuel imports will enhance energy security and benefit the EU economically.

Taken together, these figures suggest that 2026 is unlikely to see a fundamental change in Europe’s sustainability agenda. Instead, it may bring a realignment in which all current sustainability regulations and programmes will undergo a critical review, aimed at striking a more balanced relationship between environmental ambition, economic competitiveness and social and military security.

News and events

Join the mentoring programme
Following the success of the People of Colour mentoring programme trial, we’re recruiting for our second cohort, now open to all membership levels.
Mentees: Members who meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to apply at forms.office.com/e/rTy7e2H8CX

Mentors: Full members and Fellows are invited to take part – you do not need to identify as a Person of Colour. Criteria are listed on application at forms.office.com/e/tYB9rhASvS

Networks and groups
Our Fellows Network has established a number of groups for Fellows, so do contact e.morris@isepglobal.org to find out more on:
• Aviation
• Construction
• Academia
• Non-exec director masterclass
• Quarterly all-Fellows meetings.

ISEP Fellowship: take the next step
Webinar: Wednesday 25 March, 12.00 GMT
Becoming an ISEP Fellow: Digital Workshop

If you are interested in joining the distinguished ranks at the pinnacle of ISEP’s membership, we invite you to register for this upcoming webinar.
This interactive session is limited to 10 participants, and is open to both members and non-members, with tickets priced at £25 per participant.

Studying an ISEP-approved degree?
You could be eligible for free ISEP student membership. ISEP works in partnership with universities to support students entering the profession. If your course is ISEP-approved, you can join as a student member at no cost.
• Check your eligibility
See if your course is approved at www.bit.ly/EdPartnerRegister.
• How to access free membership
Speak to your course leader to get your access code – this ensures your membership is free of charge.
• Act now
Check your course. Speak to your course leader. Join ISEP for free.

LinkedIn live event
WEBINAR: Tuesday 24 February, 10.00 to 11.00 GMT
From Insight to Impact – ISEP’s ‘State of the Sustainability Profession’ report

Join us for a LinkedIn Live panel exploring ISEP’s State of the Sustainability Profession 2025 report and what it means for business leaders. The webinar will examine how the profession is evolving amid regulatory pressure, talent shortages and rising ambition. Hear from leading practitioners on trends in governance, operating models, investment and skills. Learn why governance is lagging, how organisations are breaking silos, where there is investment, and what lies ahead for in-house capability versus consultancy, plus what may shape the next report.
• Register at www.bit.ly/ISEPInsight

ISEP Connect
Stay informed. Stay connected
We’re excited to introduce ISEP Connect – a new series of free monthly online events, created especially for our members. 
Alongside our annual conference, these sessions offer a regular opportunity to stay informed, engaged and connected throughout the year.

What to expect
Join your peers to hear direct updates from ISEP’s leadership team, gain insight into the projects and priorities shaping our work, and take part in industry-specific breakout sessions where you can connect with peers, share experiences and build your professional network.
Each ISEP Connect session is focused, interactive and designed with members in mind – making it easy to stay engaged, informed and involved.

Why join?
• Stay connected with ISEP’s work and future direction
• Hear directly from senior leaders every month
• Build meaningful relationships with peers in your industry
• Be part of the wider ISEP Connect annual programme.

Registration is now open for the first six months. To register for the February event, visit www.bit.ly/ISEPConnect

‘How to’ webinar series kicks off

These sessions focus on practical communication and leadership skills, featuring an outstanding line-up of topics and expert speakers. The first three sessions are now live on the website, with a further three sessions to be released in March and April.

How To: Engage Stakeholders and Feel Heard
Wednesday 18 February, 12.00 to 12.45 GMT

Discover how to engage stakeholders with confidence in this dynamic online webinar with facilitator and coach Penny Walker FISEP.

Learn the core principles of meaningful engagement, practical stakeholder-mapping techniques and effective communication strategies to build trust, create lasting sustainability solutions and turn key relationships into powerful allies.

Join us to strengthen your interpersonal skills so that you can find allies when it matters most. The event will also signpost you to additional learning opportunities.
• Visit www.bit.ly/engage-stakeholders for more information and to register for the event.

Dates for your diary

New Zealand: Sustainability and Environmental Networking Event
Thursday 12 February, 16.30 to 19.30 NZDT

An in-person event in Auckland. Connect, learn and grow as we explore the latest trends in sustainability and share real-world experiences.

To register, visit www.bit.ly/NZnetworking

Europe: Talking Sustainability

Friday 13 February, 9.00 to 10.00 CET (8.00 to 9.00 GMT)

Connect with sustainability experts across Europe in a virtual event every second Friday of the month.

To register, visit www.bit.ly/TalkingSustainability

London & South East: The Circular Economy in Practice

Tuesday 17 February, 12.00 to 13.00 GMT

Key concepts, putting them into practice and examples that point the way.

Visit www.bit.ly/ISEP-CE to register for the online event

Northern Ireland: ISEP & CIWM: Collaboration for a Green Transition

Wednesday 4 March, 8.45 to 13.30 GMT

On International Women’s Day, for this in-person event we align with the global #GiveToGain campaign, looking at a just green transition.

To register, visit www.bit.ly/Collaboration-for-green-transition